Cowboy Up at Concho Hills Guest Ranch

 

 

 

 

All Inclusive meals and lodging

Horseback riding

Intro to Western Reinsman Clinic

Western ranch activities

Historical tours and more…

Award Winning Concho Hills Guest Ranch:  The perfect blend of western hospitality, location, and history.

Concho Hills Ranch offers a remarkable dude ranch experience, deeply rooted in the history and western heritage of the area. Immerse yourself in the culture, resilience, and hospitality that has captivated settlers, readers, movie-goers, and poets for centuries. Nestled away from the chaos of urban life, Concho Hills Ranch invites you into a world where nature reigns supreme and the true meaning of a fulfilled life is embraced.

Every intricate detail at Concho Hills Guest Ranch reflects the owner’s unwavering love for the Southwest and American western heritage. From the adobe main ranch house with viga and latia ceilings to the charming southwest-style guest quarters, indulge in the rich tapestry of western culture.

Recognized in 2024 by True West Magazine as the reader’s choice Best of the West Heritage Guest Ranch.  We are also a recipient of the prestigious Signature Ranch Award in 11 categories, Concho Hills proudly ranks among the top 10 ranches for 2019-2020. With our moderate climate, you can experience the timeless allure of Concho Hills all year round. Embark on a journey, whether for a few days or weeks, and discover the true essence of the west through horseback riding and a variety of ranch activities. At Concho Hills, you will arrive as guests and, above all, leave as family.

Call now! (575) 772-5757

Or email us!

 

 

LIfe on the Ranch…

… At Concho Hills

From the Owners:

Concho Hills Guest Ranch offers the ideal retreat from the fast-paced city life.

With our roots ingrained in the simplicity and serenity of farm life, we bring a strong work ethic and values honed on our family farms in the south. Despite our successful careers as nuclear consultants, we often find ourselves yearning for the nostalgia and charm of our rural upbringing.

Our previous profession has given us remarkable opportunities to immerse ourselves in the rich history, culture, attractions, activities, and mouthwatering cuisine of the United States and southern Africa. Who could resist such a fulfilling travel experience?

The owners, Tim and Marilyn

Go West Young Man

Our journey led us to New Mexico in late 2005.  Here, our spare time activities of history, cowboy action shooting, and horseback riding, unexpectedly connected us to a cowboy culture we grew to truly admire – that of ranching in the west. 

What we Discovered: Cowboy Culture and code

Discover the rich heritage of ranching families and their ancestors who settled this land. Rooted in a rural lifestyle, miles away from towns or cities, these families have embraced a unique set of values and ethics. Known as the cowboy code or code of the west, it embodies qualities that we deeply admire. Courage, self-reliance, resiliency, tenacity, and unwavering optimism in the face of challenges are just a few of the remarkable traits they possess.

Their loyalty to family and friends is unwavering. Shared responsibilities, tough yet fair parenting, and a commitment to getting the job done with excellence define their relationships. They don’t complain about being tired; instead, they understand the importance of completing tasks. They approach every task with care and dedication, ensuring that nothing is left unfinished.

Love radiates through every aspect of their lives. It’s not openly expressed, but rather demonstrated through actions. Helping one another, keeping promises, a knowing wink, or a sly smile speak volumes. These individuals are not big talkers; they prefer to listen and let their actions speak for themselves. They hold steadfast to their values, knowing where to draw the line and understanding that some things are priceless. Balancing work and play, they embrace laughter, storytelling, and even putting their tales into song. This is what we’ve discovered at Concho Hills, and it’s what we’re eager to share with our guests.

Our amenities go beyond the average ranch, but we intentionally avoid the trappings of suburban culture, leaving behind swimming pools, golf courses, noisy cars, and television. As my ranch hand once said, “We’re about providing an experience as close to the true west life and the code as possible.

Sharing the Lifestyle:

Just like the original guest ranches, we believe in sharing our way of life with our guests. Engaging in meaningful conversations, we want to learn about your family and life experiences. As we explore the breathtaking scenery, encounter fascinating wildlife, and care for the animals we steward, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of this captivating culture. Concho Hills is not your average ranch experience — we have carefully curated amenities that go beyond rustic charm. However, we consciously choose to leave behind the trappings of suburban life like swimming pools, golf courses, noisy cars, and television. We aspire to provide an authentic taste of the true west life and the code that defines it, just as our ranch hand eloquently put it: ‘We’re about providing an experience as close to the true west life and the code as possible.’

Western Heritage Magdalena Stockyards

Ranching:

Ranching isn’t just an occupation; rather, it’s our western heritage.  Therefore, ranching is our western way of life based on tradition. Most of all, ranching is an institute where change is carefully examined, and its value tested, before change is accepted.  For that reason, Don Edwards, (in the song For Those that Lean to Lonesome) eloquently sung: “ It’s all about horses, the cattle, and men, about the country, the work, and the pride…”

During your vacation, you can be our guest  and experience this western heritage with us!  Check out our history page here to learn more about our area’s country, events, and people.  As a result, you will understand why True West Magazine’s readers voted our ranch  Best of the West Heritage Guest Ranch.

Location:

Nestled in the foothills of the San Mateo Mountains in picturesque New Mexico, Concho Hills Ranch offers an exceptional and distinctive experience. Our ideal location, a mere 136 miles southwest of Albuquerque Airport, combined with the perfect altitude (7,400 ft), ensures delightful temperatures year-round.

Situated along the historic Magdalena Stock Driveway, near its end in Magdalena, our ranch is enveloped by the vast expanse of New Mexico’s ranch land. Immerse yourself in the genuine Wild West, where the landscapes that once graced iconic western movies come alive. Explore the wonders of our remarkable ranch on our dedicated Ranch page.

Foothills of San Mateo Mountains
Concho Hills Guest Ranch - Living Room Main Ranch House

Lodging :

Our dude ranch accommodations are attractive and very comfortable.  The main, hacienda style, adobe ranch house is always open and where we gather to visit, eat, and relax.  The private guest rooms are a stone’s throw away.  The guest rooms have modern conveniences: queen or twin beds, tiled bathrooms, and independent climate control.  You don’t get lost in the crowd at Concho Hills!  That’s because our seven guest rooms provides us with a maximum occupancy of 14 people.  This ensures you will receive personal attention from our award winning hosts.  Our reviews tell us we are on the right trail!  Take a look on our Lodging page for accommodation details!

Activities :

Your vacation activities at our dude ranch will depend upon your desires and abilities.  Our guest’s interests vary from those who wish to participate and learn about all aspects of western ranching, to those who just want to relax.  Most (but not all) come for the horseback riding.  Our riding program and Introduction to Western Reinsman Clinic is what makes Concho Hills Guest Ranch unique. See Our Horses page for details.  From beginner horseback riders to rodeo champions, young or simply young at heart,  there is something to entertain you at Concho Hills.  Our dude ranch offers a variety of western ranch activities, both in and out of the saddle.  We’ll do our best to ensure everyone has a fun, entertaining, and rewarding stay.   Visit the Activities page to see examples what you will enjoy on your vacation!

Concho Hills Guest Ranch - Activities-Working Cattle
Concho Hills Guest Ranch - Fantastic Food - Steak Night

Fantastic Food!

In their reviews, our guests have raved about our delicious food and settings.  Abundant and hearty, our meals are served ranch family style around our large dining tables.  Hence be prepared to pass the bread!  Our varied menus focus on western traditional foods of the area, from grilled steaks to New Mexico fare.  Yes, cowboys have a sweet tooth, so you will get desserts and snacks as well.  Visit our Meals page and let your mouth water…

Award Winning!

We are so humbled and grateful to be voted to win the following awards by our guest and friends.  We will do our best to maintain these esteemed awards. The awards are most cherished as are the voters who put us in these positions.

Signature Ranch Award Winner in Eleven Categories for 2019-2020

Duderanch.com supports over 123 guest or dude ranches.  Most years they canvas guests to have them vote for the 10 best ranches in several categories.  Concho Hills has won in at least 3 categories since 2015.  Each year we try to maintain or increase these prestigious awards.  We were proud to win Signature Ranch Awards  in 11 categories!  A heartfelt "thank you" to our guests, friends, and neighbors for voting for us.  It is an honor to be voted into the top from over 123 Guest Ranches!  We were voted in the top 10 ranches of the following categories:

Best Luxury Dude Ranches

Best Food / Dining / Meals

Favorite Dude Ranch Hosts

Best Dude Ranch for Families

Best Dude Ranches for Kids & Teens

Best Dude Ranch to Visit in Winter

Best Working Dude Ranches

Best Horseback Riding

Best Cattle Drives

Best ‘Adults-Only Week’ Dude Ranches

Best Instagram Account

 

Concho Hills Guest Ranch Signature Ranch Award

True West Magazine’s Best of the West Awards

 

 

 

Since 1953, True West Magazine has taken readers on a voyage of the American West frontier.  Every year True West has honored the those who have dedicated themselves to preserving history and promoting travel to experience the West first hand.  In the magazine’s words:

“Everyone honored this year has played an important role in keeping our Old West history alive, and we thank you for supporting each one’s efforts."

We are humbled and truly grateful that the magazine's readers and our guests have voted us to be the "Best of the West"

  • 2024 Reader's Choice Award: Best heritage Guest Ranch
  • 2019 Editor's Choice: Best Heritage Guest Ranch
  • 2018 Reader's Choice Award in two Categories: Best Heritage Guest Ranch and Best Heritage Bed and Breakfast

 

True West Magazine Award - Best of the West 2024
Award-Best of the West 2019
2018 Best of the West Award
Trip Advisor 2022 Traveler's Choice Award
Award-2019 Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence
Award-2018 Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence
TripAdvisor Reviews-Click to Read

Rave Reviews :

Concho Hills has been awarded Trip Advisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award (previously Certificate of Excellence) for 2022, 2019, and 2018.

Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on TripAdvisor. The awards are given to businesses that have been listed with them for more than a year and that have consistently have received great reviews.  Consider these or click on the Tripadvisor icon and read more about what our guests have had to say about Concho Hills and its staff…

 

” If you are considering a guest ranch experience, Concho Hills is THE place to go. “

“Outstanding! This is the BEST vacation we have ever had!”

“There are not enough words to explain how much I loved Concho Hills Ranch and Tim and Marilyn.”

These are just a few of the comments our guests have said about their vacation at our guest ranch.  In the western way, our reputation means a lot to us.  The reviews have also made us very, very thankful to have met so many wonderful people.  Our reviews make us feel proud, and taking pride in one’s work is part of the cowboy way.  Another cowboy ethic is: “when you make a promise, keep it.”   We promise to do our best to make your western ranch vacation a five star experience.

 

Time to Book!

So this vacation, enjoy western ranching and it’s many and varied activities that will allow you to view, enjoy, and photograph the grandeur, beauty, and wildlife of the great Southwest.  Ride horses, tour the areas, enjoy our family atmosphere, but most importantly enjoy yourself.  We’ll need to talk, so contact us.  We are a small operation and you have a better chance of booking the dates you want by reserving your room now.  

Need some tips on what to bring?  See our page Things to Bring for ideas as to what to pack in your bedroll.

Our rates are reasonable and all-inclusive for most all activities, so you can enjoy your vacation and not worry about accounting or how much fun you’re going to have.  See our Rates page for details.  Also look at our Specials page for special events and celebrations, sometimes including reduced rates.

We’re open all year, so come anytime, meet new friends, and enjoy Western Living at it’s best and finest.

We accept cash, check and all major credit cards!

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Become our Guests! Call us:

(575) 772-5757

Or, click here to email us about your vacation ideas.